Impact of Sleep in Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders on Family Well-Being: A Systematic Review of Psychological Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in children, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disability, are often associated with significant sleep disturbances. These disruptions can adversely affect the child and the psychological well-being of family members. This systematic review aims to synthesize evidence on the impact of sleep disturbances in children with NDDs on the psychological outcomes of their families. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and PsycINFO. Eligible studies examined associations between sleep disturbances in children with NDDs and relatives’ psychological outcomes, such as caregiver stress, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. The risk of bias was assessed using the STROBE Checklist, and findings were narratively or quantitatively synthesized, where appropriate. Results: A total of 10 studies were included. Evidence indicates that sleep disturbances in children with NDDs are strongly associated with increased caregiver stress and elevated symptoms of anxiety and depression. Reduced sleep quality and duration in children are linked to poorer family functioning and lower quality of life in caregivers. Conclusions: Sleep disturbances in children with NDDs profoundly impact the psychological well-being of their families, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve sleep in children and provide mental health support for caregivers. Future research should explore longitudinal outcomes and the effectiveness of family-centered interventions to address this multifaceted challenge.